Watermelon Basket Summer Delight (Print Version)

A show-stopping fruit display featuring carved watermelon filled with mixed fresh fruits and citrus-mint dressing

# What You Need:

01 - 1 large seedless watermelon

02 - 2 cups seedless grapes, green or red

03 - 2 cups cantaloupe, balled or diced

04 - 2 cups pineapple, diced

05 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved

06 - 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced

07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

08 - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

09 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves

01 - Slice 1/4 inch off the length of the watermelon to create a flat, stable base for the basket to sit steadily.

02 - Mark a handle and basket outline on the watermelon. Carefully cut out the handle and remove the top pieces to expose the flesh.

03 - Using a melon baller or knife, remove watermelon flesh in balls or bite-sized cubes, reserving in a large bowl.

04 - Pat the inside of the carved watermelon basket dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

05 - Mix watermelon balls, grapes, cantaloupe, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwis in a large mixing bowl.

06 - Whisk together lime juice, honey, and chopped mint in a small bowl until well combined.

07 - Drizzle the citrus-honey dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.

08 - Transfer the dressed fruit into the carved watermelon basket. Chill until serving and garnish with additional mint if desired.

01 -

Its the kind of centerpiece that makes people pull out their phones before they even grab a fork
The fruit stays perfectly chilled inside the watermelon, so every bite is refreshingly cold

02 -

The lime juice keeps apples and pears from browning if you want to add those fruits too
You can prep everything up to four hours ahead but dont add the dressing until right before serving

03 -

Chill your watermelon in the fridge overnight before carving it becomes firmer and easier to work with
Use an ice cream scoop instead of a melon baller for bigger more rustic fruit balls